COMMUNICATIONS WORKING GROUP

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This infrastructure function working group addresses ways to improve communications capacity for the progressive movement, particularly in regard to reaching beyond the usual base. There are many moderate and progressive organizations that have, as their sole purpose or as part of their operations, capacity in areas such as communication strategy; media and communications training; speakers' bureaus; and preparation and distribution of press releases, newsletters, and other print material. Others are engaged in production and distribution of print, video and audio material; media placement; independent journalism; advertising; public relations; and communications related to political campaigns and parties. Distinct areas include ethnic and student media; blogging; specialty communications such as filmmaking, theater, house parties, T-shirts and other message-bearing items, billboards, and vocal performances; communications to faith groups and membership organizations; leafleting; word-of-mouth; and various digital communication forms.

The emerging progressive movement needs to use these resources more effectively to reach new audiences with progressive ideas and values, and to move public opinion toward greater support of progressive policies and leaders. New programs, alliances, and even new organizations may be needed to achieve the most effective communication of progressive ideas to a wide range of audiences.

Members of the Communications working group will exchange ideas and information about:

  • The types of capacity needed for more effectively communicating to specific audiences as well as the general public
  • How to get a larger "share of voice"
  • Existing resources and allies-who they are and what they do well
  • Weaknesses and gaps-what needs to be improved or created
  • How different types of organizations (501c3, 501c4, 527, PAC, for-profit, individuals, political entities) can and should relate to each other in their communications efforts, for greatest effectiveness in advancing the progressive movement as a whole, as well as promoting individual issues
  • How those engaged in the communications sector might best relate to other functions and parts of progressive infrastructure, such as marketing strategy and market research; framing, strategic narrative, and branding; media production; media dissemination, broadcasting, and distribution; independent and mainstream journalism; blogging and other digital communication forms; and political campaigns and parties
  • How to increase cooperation in communications-related efforts, deal with conflicts and different approaches, and facilitate change when needed

During the March 2006 Progressive Roundtable convening, if Communications is your primary function area, you will have the opportunity to work with other members of your group on specific plans for developing new communication resources and capabilities needed to satisfy pressing needs.